Bruges, Belgium

Bruges (Bruges in French and English; Brugge in Dutch) is home to several historic churches and an important Catholic shrine that is said to hold the very blood of Christ. Founded in the 13th century as a cloth manufacturing town, Bruges soon became one of the wealthiest cities in Europe. Fortunately, unlike so many other European cities, Bruges has remained unravaged by war and has preserved its glorious monumental buildings intact. In fact, it is one of the most perfectly preserved medieval cities in Europe - which UNESCO has recognized by designating the historic center a World Heritage Site.

Built from the 13th to 15th centuries, the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk has a soaring spire that can be seen for miles around. And inside is a great treasure: the only sculpture by Michaelangelo outside Italy.